Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – American Special
Shepherd’s Pie is a beloved American comfort dish featuring a savory blend of seasoned ground lamb (or beef), vegetables such as carrots, peas, and corn, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes then baked until golden and bubbling. This Shepherd’s Pie Recipe offers warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful, perfect for family dinners, cozy evenings, or whenever you need a hearty, comforting meal.
- Prep Time20 min
- Cook Time50 min
- Total Time1 hr 10 min
Shepherd’s Pie Recipe Ingredients:
- For the Meat Filling: 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb or beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef or chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- For the Mashed Potatoes: 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk (more if needed)
- 3 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
Boil Potatoes: Place peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot. Cover with water and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender (about 15 minutes).
Mash Potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add 3 tbsp butter and 1/4 cup milk. Mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
Prepare the Meat Filling:
Cook Meat: Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 lb ground lamb or beef. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Vegetables: Add 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, and 1 cup diced carrots to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender (about 5 minutes).
Season and Simmer: Stir in 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, and salt and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes. Add 1 cup beef or chicken broth, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the mixture thickens (about 5-10 minutes).
Add Peas and Corn: Stir in 1 cup peas and 1 cup corn kernels (if using). Cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
Preheat Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C).
Layer Filling: Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Top with Mashed Potatoes: Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat filling, spreading them out evenly. Use a fork to create a textured surface for browning.
Bake:
Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Serve:
Cool Slightly: Let the shepherd’s pie cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set a bit.
Recipe Notes :
Use ground lamb for a traditional shepherd’s pie; beef can be substituted (often called Cottage Pie) for variation.
Ensure vegetables are diced uniformly so they cook evenly and soften properly.
Tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce add depth—don’t skip them.
Mashed potatoes should be well-seasoned, buttery, and creamy to achieve a rich topping.
Spread potato topping evenly, and use a fork to texture the surface before baking for attractive browning.
Bake at about 400°F (200°C) until the potato crust is golden and the filling is bubbling at the sides.
For a crispier top, broil 2-3 minutes at the end—but watch carefully to avoid burning.
Let the pie rest a few minutes after baking so it sets slightly, making it easier to serve.
